Phoenixville figures into the Battle of Gettysburg in a very unique way. The Phoenix Iron Company manufactured the 3-inch ordnance rifles used by the Union Army at Gettysburg, July 1-3, 1863.

This local connection to the worst battle of the Civil War is one of many that can be heard on our Battle Scars website, which commemorates the 150th anniversary of the Battle of Gettysburg and the Civil War, at www.pottstownmercury.wix.com/CivilWarBattleScars.

Every day leading up to the anniversary, we will highlight a new person from the area who fought in the decisive battle that marked a turning point in the war or who was affected by the events. Visit the site to hear historian Michael Snyder talk about the part Phoenix Iron Co. and others played in this decisive battle.

You can also find information on visiting the national park during the anniversary ceremonies and re-enactments.